Turkish man pays Rs 84,000 to ex-wife every year for 'cat support', sparks new divorce trend

The settlement covers food, vaccinations, and other pet-related expenses, with payments ending upon the cats’ death. (Representational image: Unsplash)

A divorce case in Turkey has set a rare precedent after a man agreed to pay his ex-wife 10,000 liras (Rs 21,000) every quarter for the care of their two cats, according to Turkish media outlet Yenisafak. The payments will continue for 10 years, amounting to Rs 84,000 annually, and will be adjusted for inflation.

The couple, identified as Bugra and Ezgi, separated after two years of marriage in Istanbul. Ezgi was granted custody of the cats, while Bugra also agreed to pay 550,000 liras (Rs 13 lakh) in financial compensation. The settlement covers food, vaccinations, and other pet-related expenses, with payments ending upon the cats’ death.

Pets as family members

Lawyer Aylin Esra Eren said Turkey’s animal protection law treats pets as “living beings,” making abandonment illegal and punishable with fines up to 60,000 liras (Rs 1.4 lakh).

“Pets that are not properly cared for will become strays, and abandoning microchipped pets on the streets is illegal,” Eren explained, adding that the case legally defines pet care responsibilities for the first time.

Eren clarified that Bugra’s payments cannot be considered alimony, which under Turkish law applies only to spouses or children. “Caring for cats requires attention to their food, mood, and health, much like raising a child,” she said.

Reactions on social media

The story has sparked debate online. SCMP quote one user as saying: “It is great to see growing respect for the status of pets. I hope more countries follow this example.” Another cautioned: “We should be careful because some people may use pets as bargaining chips in a divorce.”

The case highlights Turkey’s evolving pet economy, with the country’s pet population reaching 20.9 million in 2023, and signals a shift toward recognising animals as family members in legal frameworks.